California Struggles to Provide Adequate Mental Health Support in Schools
California has made strides in improving mental health services statewide, but access to care for students remains a significant challenge. According to a report from the Kaiser Family Foundation in 2025, only about half of public schools in the state are effectively equipped to provide mental health services to all students who require support. This gap leaves millions of young people without critical assistance during a time when they face increasing levels of anxiety and stress.
Schools are traditionally viewed as safe havens where children can seek help from teachers and administrators. However, staffing shortages among mental health providers, restrictive Medicaid policies, and limited financial resources hinder schools’ ability to offer necessary support. The current situation is concerning, especially given that mental health issues among young individuals have only intensified in recent years.
Brezeida Dominguez, a concerned resident from Oakland, emphasizes the urgent need for change. She advocates for the full implementation of recent Medicaid reforms that would allow schools to invoice for behavioral health services. By expanding partnerships with mental health providers, the state can better meet the needs of its students.
In her letter to the editor, Dominguez argues that every student deserves equal access to mental health care, which is critical not only for their educational success but also for their overall well-being. She calls for mental health investment in schools to be recognized as a vital public health policy rather than an optional service.
As California grapples with these challenges, the need for comprehensive mental health support in schools is more pressing than ever. The state must prioritize these reforms to ensure that all students can thrive in a supportive educational environment. Addressing these issues will require collaboration among educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers to create a system that truly supports the mental health needs of young people.
